How to Make a Flapper Headband – 5 Projects to Revive the Twenties

With the growing popularity of haircuts called “the bob” in the 1920’s came the need for a different style of head wear. Along with slouch hats, tams, berets and turbans came decorated headbands that have remained popular over the course of time. Whether looking for that added touch of elegance for a wedding, party or some other occasion, flapper headbands are a great way to maintain your individuality and style. Following are some of our favorite projects.

Project no. 1 – How to Make a Flapper Headband With Sequins and Feathers

This one is super simple yet achieves that glamorous vibe so popular in the 1920’s.

What You Need

1/2 yard 1″ wide stretch sequined trim.

1 short ostrich feather.

1 large decorative rhinestone or applique.

Needle and thread to match the color of the headband.

Glue (optional).

Scissors.

Step-by-Step

Measure the distance around your head and note the measurement.

Cut the sequined trim to the measurement.

Make a circle with the strip overlapping the ends slightly.

Use the needle and thread to whip-stitch the ends of the band into place. Make sure it is stitched tightly to ensure that it does not come undone once pressure is placed on it.

Use the needle and thread to tack the end of the feather to the headband over the place where the headband was sewn together.

Sew or glue the embellishment over the end of the feather making sure that any remnants of stitching are covered.

Project no. 2 – How to Make a Flapper Headband With Cord and Beads

This one is classic Hollywood and so easy to make.

What You Need

A roll of 2mm black rat tail cord.

Jewelry beads in the color of choice.

Hot glue gun and rods.

Lighter.

Tape measure.

Scissors.

Step-by-Step

Measure your head and cut 9 strands of cord the distance measured plus 2 feet (1′ will hang from each side when done). Set them aside.

Cut 16 strands of the cord 4″ long and set them aside in a separate pile.

Beginning about a foot up on one side of 3 of the long cords, tie a knot then braid the strands to within 1′ at the other end and tie a knot. Put a dot of glue on each knot to hold it secure.

Braid the next 3 strands the same way then the last 3 strands like the first two.

Tie the braids together where the braiding starts then braid the 3 braided cords together to the other end and tie them off where the braiding ends. Put a dot of glue on each knot.

The ends of the rat tail cord have a tendency to fray so wave them over a flame to seal them. Just make sure you don’t catch the cord itself on fire during this step. Seal both ends of each short strand as well.

Tie the two ends together at the back of the head so it can be slipped on then take it off in order to complete the next step.

On the tails of the braided strands, run beads partway up each strand and tie them into place here and there. You still want the cording to show with the beads about the same distances up each of the strands but it’s better if it’s not perfect. After tying the beads in place at the bottom of each cord put a dot of glue to seal it in place.

Take the short cords and tie them on the front half of the headband an equal distance apart. Be sure and seal the ends of each cord then tie beads next to the headband and at the end of each strand before knotting the ends. Be sure that each knot has been secured with glue so the beads don’t come off. That’s it, it’s ready to wear.

Project no. 3 – How to Make a Flapper Headband With Tiny Pearls

This one is ooh, so chic yet understated.

What You Need

Tiny pearls with holes through the middle.

4 medium sized tear drop pearls.

20 gauge wire.

Thin cording.

Wire cutters.

Needle nose pliers.

Something to use for shaping like a head form or empty coffee can.

Step-by-Step

Measure your head and cut the wire after adding 1″ then cut another one the same length.

Cut 6 strands of wire 3″ long.

String pearls on both of the long wires then curl each end so they don’t come off.

Wrap a short wire in the center of one of the long strands, string the pearls then wrap the other end around the center of the 2nd long wire.

Do all short wires the same way attaching them at equal distances along the long wire and serving as the connection from one long wire to the other.

Attach the ends of the long wire to each other and shape the headband around the form allowing the short strands to keep the long strands separated. Make any adjustments where needed.

Cut 3 lengths of thin cording 12″ long.

Tie a knot at the end of one cord, slide a tear drop pearl down the cord to the knot then string tiny pearls on top until you come to within 2″ of the top. Attach it over the twisted wire where the headband came together.

String the second one the same way, tie it to the headband then wrap it around the first allowing the end to hang down.

Do the 3rd strand the same way, tie it to the headband and wrap it around the other two allowing the end to hang down.

Run a thread through the part that hangs around where it twists and tie the thread securely so it doesn’t untwist.

Project no. 4 – How to Make a Flapper Headband For a Vintage Wedding

If you have a 20’s inspired vintage wedding in mind, this headband will make an extremely elegant topper for your wedding look.

What You Need

4″ wide lace in a color that complements the dress and veil.

Silk flower rosettes in the same color as the lace.

Tulle for the veil.

1″ wide non-rolling elastic.

Needle and thread.

Hair comb in clear, white or cream to match the veil.

Scissors.

Measuring tape.

Step-by-Step

Measure the distance around the head and subtract 3″ then cut the lace to match.

Cut a piece of elastic 4″ long.

Fold lace in half. Gather one end and run stitches through the gathers then do the same to the other end.

Attach the elastic to each end with running stitches. Be sure and test it to make sure it will hold. You may have to add a 2nd set of stitches.

Attach the flower rosettes beginning at the stitching on one side, across the elastic and finishing at the stitching on the other side.

Gather the top of veil and attach it to the hair comb.

After fixing your hair, attach the comb with veil attached to the base of the hairdo then put on the headband making sure the rosettes cover the comb.

Project no. 5 – How to Make a Flapper Headband With Satin and a Jewel

This is a perfect option to accentuate the eyes and add an element of drama.

What You Need

Satin ribbon 6″ wide.

Needle and thread.

A jeweled broach or applique.

Measuring tape.

Scissors.

Step-by-Step

Measure the circumference of your head and cut the ribbon to that length plus 1″.

Fold the ribbon in half and sew it together at the back. Make sure you line up your seam in the center back and press the edges down.

Gather one end and stitch it to hold it in place. Do the same to the other end.

Overlap the ends of the ribbon after making a circle and sew them together. This sewn part is the front.

Either sew or pin the embellishment over the stitching and it’s ready to wear.

Wrapping Up

The 1920’s were all about drama and the eyes. With shorter hairstyles becoming a trend it soon became obvious that hair accessories were required to keep looks feminine yet elegant. If you’re looking for something to add a bit of pizzazz to your look then you need to learn how to make a flapper headband that will become a statement piece and set you apart.